Welcome back bibliophiles!A couple days back, I shared my April Book Haul with all of you- the list included four bookstore picks and two library picks. Today, I'll be sharing my review of two of the bookstore picks!(My review for both library picks can be seen on "AZE Reviews a Classic.")

The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena(5 stars)The Contis seem to have it all: a loving relationship, a lovely home, and a beautiful baby. But one night, when they attend a dinner party next door, a terrible crime is committed. When Detective Rasbach notices that the panicked couple is hiding something, suspicion falls on the parents. The couple soon discovers that each has been keeping secrets. Will their lies get in the way of solving an unsettling case?ReviewThe Couple Next Door is a quick and fun novel. While the book isn't necessarily suspenseful, it's definitely thrilling enough to hook the audience into some binge reading. From the first chapter, I found myself completely enthralled by the story. The characters were definitely memorable. Each was so different from the rest that their personalities served to piece the puzzle together. Although this was truly a great read, the outcome of the mystery seemed a bit predictable. Regardless, I gave The Couple Next Door 5 stars because it's a fresh, memorable novel! If you're in the mood for something to get you out of a slump, this is a great choice!

Six Stories​ by Matt Wesolowski(4 stars)When the body of teenager Tom Jeffries is found, deputies rule it a misadventure. However, not everyone is convinced. The truth of what really happened on that dreaded night is locked in the memories of a close-knit group of friends, the people who were with Tom that night. Twenty years later, notorious investigative journalist Scott King conducts six interviews in the hopes of uncovering the shocking events and truths of that tragic night.​ReviewSix Stories is a very distinct mystery novel. While most books in this genre are narratives that have a beginning and end point, Six Stories is divided into 6 chapters- each introduces the reader to a new character and adds a different perspective to the story. The novel is also different in that it reads like a podcast. It's as if the reader is listening to a podcast on the radio instead of reading a book. These two elements make for a very refreshing read. The writing is fun and easy to understand, and the characters are very intriguing. While each appears to be honest, it's quite evident they all have something to hide. Nonetheless the novel left a couple questions unanswered, because of this I gave the novel 4 stars as opposed to 5. If you're looking for something different in the mystery genre, Six Stories is a good option!

For my reviews of Murder at the Vicarage and Hercule Poirot's Christmas check out "Book Review (Bookstore Picks): Part Two"

Lately, I've been thinking quite a bit about what makes 5-star novels so distinguishable from the rest. Because of this, I decided I'd share my review process with all of you. There are times when my review of a book may be different from another reader. For example, maybe I've given a particular novel 3 stars but my peer has given it 4. Remember, it's perfectly okay to have a different opinion than your peers. Not everyone is going to enjoy every single novel, and that's what makes discussing books so fun! Let's look at what makes a great read for me!

3 starsInfrequently, I start a book that doesn't particularly catch my attention but is okay enough to complete. This read usually features messy character or plot development. I usually consider this type of writing to be 3 stars because although it isn't captivating or memorable, it's manageable.

4 starsMost of the books I read, the usual New York Times bestsellers, I give 4 stars. 4-star novels are usually great reads, but are somehow missing a significant element. Although the missing element is usually different in every 4-star book, most of the novels I've given 4 stars have had either insufficient endings or uninteresting characters.

For a book to receive the highest possible rating from me, it must feature four distinct elements: a hook, enticing characters (clear character development), a captivating plot, and a worthwhile ending.

5 starsHook: The beginning of a book is extremely important. It sets the tone for the rest of the novel and gives a reader a sense of what kind of writing they're facing. The hook of a novel, whether the first sentence, paragraph, or chapter determines if the reader is going to be interested and eager to continue reading or indifferent to finishing the book.

Enticing Characters: The second element essential to a 5-star book is interesting characters. As a reader you want to be engaged with the people in a story, you want to be eager to find out what's going to happen to them whether you like them or not. In most 5-star reads, the characters are likable. Regardless, that's not the case in all top rated books. Because of this, it's essential that writers take their time in developing a handful of enticing characters as opposed to many mundane characters. There's no doubt that this element weighs heavily on a reader's final rating of a novel.

Captivating Plot: The third element, and one of the most important in a novel, is the storyline. If the plot of a book isn't alluring, why would any reader want to finish a book? A great storyline is key to any high rated book, and because creating one is not easy, books that do have one deserve the praise they receive.

Worthwhile Ending: The ending of a novel is the most important element because it's the most anticipated. I've read plenty of books that were amazing... right up until the end. (Did any book come to mind?) As a reader, you don't want to sit through an amazing book and then feel disappointed. Because of this, writing a worthwhile ending is essential. Authors have a duty to their audience and to their own characters to write an ending that's as strong and satisfying as the beginning.

Read a 5-star book lately? Leave book suggestions down in the comments below!

Welcome back to AZE!​This week I decided to share the books I'm most eager to read. Most of these have been released in hardcover, but because I prefer paperbacks, I'm waiting for those editions to be released. I have to admit that I'm most excited for Ruth Ware's and B.A. Paris' new novels. I've read their previous books and really enjoy their writing. However, I'm also looking forward to the other two novels I'm sharing with all of you! I've heard good things about the books on this list... If any of you are debating whether to read any of these or you have already, share your thoughts with us down in the comments below (please no spoilers)!

The Death of Mrs. Westawayby Ruth WareOn an ordinary day, Hal receives a strange letter referring to her upcoming inheritance. As she's reading it, she realizes that this letter has been sent to the wrong person. However, she's also realized that this newfound information could assist her in claiming the large sum of money. Soon enough, Hal finds herself at the funeral of the deceased...where she comes to terms with the fact that there is something very wrong about this situation and the letter she has "accidentally" received.

Bring Me Back by B.A. ParisA young couple is driving through France on vacation when they decide to stop for gas. He runs in to pay, she stays in the car. When he returns to the car, her door is open, but she's nowhere near. That was the last time she was ever seen.Ten years later, he's engaged and happy. Until one day, he comes home from work to find his wife-to-be holding something familiar in her hands. He's seen this familiar item before, and suddenly, memories of his missing first love come flooding back. Is it possible that his first love has returned years later? Or is the person who took her toying with his mind?

The Woman in the Window by A.J. FinnAnna Fox lives alone in her New York City home. She spends her day drinking wine, reminiscing on her past, and watching neighbors. One day, a new family moves into the house across the way. Anna soon comes to admire the perfect family. But when one night, she sees something she shouldn’t, Anna finds herself in the center of a dark secret with no way out.

The Good Samaritan by John Marrs​After Ryan has lost his pregnant wife in a mysterious suicide, he finds himself calling End of the Line for hope and assurance. He's immediately put through to Laura, an employee at End of the Line who finds herself craving calls from people who's hardships surpass hers. Will Ryan uncover his and Laura's truths before she gets her way?

​Welcome back book friends!Last week I told you all about my haul from the bookstore, but I didn't go into depth on the two novels I picked up at the library. After reading Six Stories, I decided to dive right into my library picks. This week, I'm back with two book reviews for all of you. Both of these reviews are based on my own personal liking. I absolutely understand if you agree or even disagree! Just remember, if we all liked the same things, life would be boring... With that in mind, let's get to rating!

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmesby Sir Arthur Conan Doyle(3 stars)In this collection of short stories, readers embark on a journey of truths alongside renowned Detective Sherlock Holmes and his trusted companion Dr. Watson. Will the detective be able to solve such puzzling cases?ReviewThis was my first time picking up any work of Doyle's. I was so eager to read this collection, but ended up feeling very disappointed. While I completely understood his style of writing, it simply wasn't enjoyable for me.Throughout the stories, Doyle incorporates figurative language. His writing is largely composed of metaphors and similes-this results in extremely detailed and unnecessary descriptions. For example, when describing the weather, Doyle writes "It was in the latter days of September, and the equinoctial gales had set in with exceptional violence. All day the wind had screamed and the rain had beaten against the windows, so that even here in the heart of great, handmade London we were forced to raise our minds for the instant from the routine of life and to recognize the presence of those great elemental forces which shriek at mankind through the bars of his civilization, like untamed beasts in a cage. As evening drew in, the storm grew higher and louder, and the wind cried and sobbed like a child in the chimney," (The Five Orange Pips).Instead of dragging on with such detailed information, Doyle could have easily just mentioned the condition of the weather. The last sentence from the previous excerpt: "the storm grew higher and louder, and the wind cried and sobbed like a child in the chimney" would have been more easily understood and would have achieved the same purpose. Unfortunately, every single story in the collection was told in this manner, making it mundane and very tiresome. There are many classics which I've enjoyed immensely- The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes was not one of them.

Appointment with Death (Hercule Poirot #19) by Agatha Christie(4.5 stars)​Among the captivating cliffs of Petra lays the dead body of Mrs. Boynton, a puncture mark on her arm raises suspicion of foul play. Detective Hercule Poirot is told of the misfortune and feels compelled to investigate- clearly opposing the family's wishes. Are they hiding the truth? The detective has hours to solve the case.ReviewI was so happy when I began reading this novel right after Sherlock Holmes; it felt like taking in a breath of fresh air. Unlike my previous read, which had been dull, Appointment with Death was exciting and such an easy read. Christie did a great job at creating an enticing story and such vivid characters. Nonetheless, the ending felt a bit rushed and left one or two questions unanswered. Because of this, I gave this novel 4.5 out of 5!

Have you read either of these novels? Let me know down in the comments!

Because I purchased a lot of books in the month of February, I decided to take it slow in March. Truth be told, it was agonizing. I only purchased three novels, and tried my absolute best to pace myself and take it slow.On the much brighter side, that book drought encouraged me to binge read this month! And so, I've decided to share the four novels I picked up on my last trip to the bookstore!

1. Six Stories by Matt WesolowskiWhen the body of teenager Tom Jeffries is found, deputies rule it a misadventure. However, not everyone is convinced. The truth of what really happened on that dreaded night is locked in the memories of a close-knit group of friends, the people who were with Tom that night. Twenty years later, notorious investigative journalist Scott King conducts six interviews in the hopes of uncovering the shocking events and truths of that tragic night.

2. Murder at the Vicarage (Miss Marple #1) by Agatha ChristieWhen Colonel Protheroe is found shot through the head, Miss Marple finds herself on her first case. Despite lack of testimonies and leads, everyone surrounding the establishment seems to have a reason to want the Colonel dead. Can Miss Marple uncover the identity of the mysterious killer without help from the local police?

3. Hercule Poirot's Christmas (Hercule Poirot #20) by Agatha ChristieIt's Christmas Eve, and the Lee family is filled with holiday cheer. Suddenly, there's a deafening crash followed by a piercing scream. Upstairs, Simeon Lee lies dead in a pool of blood, a deep cut across his neck. When Hercule Poirot offers his services, he comes to realize the situation is much worse than he suspected.

4. The Couple Next Door by Shari LapenaThe Contis seem to have it all: a loving relationship, a lovely home, and a beautiful baby. But one night, when they attend a dinner party next door, a terrible crime is committed. When Detective Rasbach notices that the panicked couple is hiding something, suspicion falls on the parents. The couple soon discovers that each has been keeping secrets. Will their lies get in the way of solving an unsettling case?

​I also picked up The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Appointment with Death from my local library. If interested in the synopses and reviews of these two library picks, check out "AZE Reviews A Classic" located in the April archive.

Read any of the books on this list? Have any suggestions for what I should read next? Let me know down in the comments below!

​Welcome back to AZE!For the past couple of weeks, I had been thinking about doing a very honest book review. On the site, I've mentioned books that I've really enjoyed, but I haven't shared the moments in which I found some reads disappointing. I decided to review four best sellers that I was eager to read. Some I enjoyed... others not so much.

1. Into the Waterby Paula Hawkins (3 stars)Synopsis:Days before her death, Nel called her sister, Jules, pleading for help. Now, Nel is dead. They say she jumped. Jules has been forced back to her hometown to clean up the mess her sister left behind. But there are moments when Jules wonders whether her sister's death was really suicide. Would Nel actually jump into the Drowning Pool?Review:While I really enjoy Paula Hawkins' writing, the most disappointing read this year has been Into the Water. I really enjoyed Hawkins' first book, The Girl on the Train, and felt heartbroken when I found myself wondering how the same author could write such different novels. While Hawkins' debut was composed of a clear and intriguing plot, memorable characters, and a great ending, Into the Water was composed of a messy structure and a mundane plot. This novel shifts viewpoints throughout the whole book. And while some authors are known to do that between two characters, Hawkins did it with more than five. This resulted in an unpleasant and dull storyline. While the writing was great, the plot’s structure made it so difficult to stay engaged and interested. Unlike Hawkins' first novel, which I would recommend in a heartbeat, I wouldn't recommend this book to any of my peers.

2. Gone Girlby Gillian Flynn (4 stars)Synopsis:On Amy and Nick's five-year anniversary, Amy Dunne disappears from home in broad daylight. There are definite signs of a struggle, and when evidence emerges against the husband, readers are left to decide whether Nick Dunne is a killer. How far would you go to avenge a betrayal?Review:I had been very excited to read Gone Girl when I purchased it. I did some research on it, read some reviews, and noticed that it had good ratings on Goodreads. I was so positive I would like this book, and I did..... at first. I was crazy about the plot, I devoured Flynn's writing, and then came the ending. Although Flynn perfectly developed characters and a fascinating story, she failed to write an ending that would satisfy many of her readers. This book left me hanging right after the last page, and I'm sure I'm not the only reader who felt like this. I had so many questions. I felt like there should've been so much more to the story... But Flynn just ended it without warning, and that left me without closure.So, despite this being a great read, the ending made it impossible for me to give this 5 stars.

3. Behind Closed Doorsby B.A. Paris (4 stars)Synopsis:Everyone has dreamed of finding their perfect match. Well, Jack and Grace have. He has looks and wealth, she has charm and elegance. Sometimes, they're relationship just makes you wonder... Can any marriage really be that perfect? Grace's friends ask her to tag along on girls night but she never makes it. Her friends call but she never answers? Why are there iron bars on the bedroom windows? Is this the perfect marriage or something much more sinister?Review:There's no doubt that I'm a huge fan of B.A. Paris. I absolutely love her writing and the way she creates and develops such vivid characters. B.A. Paris does a brilliant job at painting a picture. Her readers can clearly imagine the story she's written. That's why I think I struggled with this read. Behind Closed Doors features a broken home, a twisted relationship, and horrific domestic abuse. While I don't want to spoil this story for any viewers, it's important that I'm honest with all of you when I say that this novel can be difficult to swallow. To me, The Breakdown, B.A. Paris' debut novel, was much more enjoyable. Regardless, both are great books!

4. The Lying Gameby Ruth Ware (4.5 stars)Synopsis:On one cool morning, a woman is walking her dog along the water at Salten when it charges into the water and finds something dreadful. The next morning, three women residing around London receive the text they had always dreading coming. The message only contains three words: "I need you.” Moments later, four women find themselves reunited after years of silence. They'll soon find that there can be no avoiding the long awaited consequences of their actions... the truth always comes out.Review:I've read all three works published by Ruth Ware, and The Lying Game is definitely my favorite. As I've mentioned before, Ruth Ware is one of my favorites. Like B.A. Paris, she amazingly creates vivid characters and storylines. What I love most about this read is that it got better as the story developed. At first, I considered the novel to be a little slow. There’s no doubt that I enjoyed the book, but it didn't feel like a thriller or mystery throughout the first couple chapters. I really didn't find it to be a binge-reading page turner until the second half. As the story progressed, my interest in the story and characters certainly grew. I also found the ending of this book to be surprising. Overall, I’m positive that TheLyingGame is sure to be a book that'll be memorable for a lot of readers.